Collaboration, trust and performance in agri-food supply chains: a bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Purpose This paper identifies, evaluates and structures research that focuses on “collaboration” (C), “trust” (T) and “performance” (P) in the agri-food supply chain (AFSC) and reveals its intellectual foundation. It aims to synthesize research published over a period of 18 years (from 2003 to the beginning of 2020) and provide a platform for practitioners and researchers in their efforts to identify the existing state of work, gaps in current research and future directions in the area of collaboration–trust–performance (CTP) in the AFSC. Design/methodology/approach Prior to carrying out a bibliometric analysis (BA), literature search was performed, identifying 69 related papers focused on CTP in the AFSC. The content of the papers was further analysed in a systematic literature review (SLR) with regard to the subject area, theoretical lenses, research methodology, supply chain (SC) category and other relevant categories. Findings CTP in the AFSC are based on a relationship marketing and operations management fundament but show specific particularities. AFSCM is a multi-dimensional design task, and collaboration is considered a necessity, whereas trust significantly affects the AFSC effectiveness. The paper also develops a conceptual CTP model, which shows the interrelations between all identified construct variables, where the authors were able to see also bi-directional relations. Furthermore, the paper presents viable future research opportunities, e.g. focus on organic food chains or multi-actor analysis. Research limitations/implications Results of the conducted BA refer to the CTP discussion within a preselected number of peer-reviewed academic articles, which are provided by the WoS CC (Web of Science Core Collection) database. Practical implications CTP measurements within the AFSC context are a relevant subject with increasing academic interest in the area of agricultural economics as well as operations and supply chain management (SCM). Therefore, further studies are necessary to develop the related theory and ascertain the practical implications of collaboration, trust and performance among members in the consistently complex AFSC. Originality/value CTP have been recognized as important factors for designing a sustainable SCM strategy, particularly in the case of the AFSC. However, although previous studies have addressed the AFSC, there is insufficient knowledge regarding all three pillars (CTP) and how they enable successful AFSCM. The originality of this paper lies in systematically mapping the intellectual base of CTP research and providing path forward for research in AFSCM.

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